The Chippenham community has reacted to the death of a local businesswoman who spent decades of her life feeding them in a popular local cafe. 

Nicola Doyle, 52, was the owner of Jolly's Irish Cafe and would have been responsible for feeding thousands of customers at the venue during the 20-plus years that she ran it. 

But her son, Youcef Adjerid, announced that she had died in a Facebook post on Saturday. 

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Swindon Advertiser: Members of the public laying floral tributes outside Jolly's Irish Cafe after Nicola's shock death

Paying tribute to his late mother, he said: "It comes with great sadness that I declare my Mum, Nicola Doyle, has passed away aged 52.

"For anyone that has brought their custom to Jolly’s Irish Cafe in the past 20 years, I know that she was eternally grateful, and I thank every single person who has either worked or eaten there during that time.

"I’d like to request that our family’s privacy is respected during this difficult period.

"RIP Mum - I will always love you."

Doyle, and her cafe, were such big parts of the Chippenham community following their years of service to the town that when the cost-of-living crisis caused her financial difficulty last year, people rallied to raise thousands of pounds to keep the popular place open. 

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Despite the goodwill of the general public, Nicola announced that she was closing the cafe earlier this year in an emotional Facebook post, where she thanked her customers for everything they'd done to support her.

"Thanks to every single one of you who supported me. You helped me make the place something I’ll always be proud of and the best thing I’ve ever done," she said. 

Now, after learning of her death, her customers are sharing their support again, with many visiting the Market Place building to lay flowers and other tributes to the enduring community figure.

Swindon Advertiser: Some of the floral tributes that have been left for Jolly's Irish Cafe owner Nicola Doyle

Many members of the community reacting to Youcef's Facebook post about his mother's death have also taken the opportunity to share the special memories they hold of visiting Jolly's and the impact that Nicola had had on their own lives. 

One person said: "I am so sorry to hear this. Many happy memories and celebrations at Jolly’s and Nicola always made them extra special."

Another added: "A truly top lady who has left an unforgettable legacy and mark on all those who knew her."

Finally, a third person said: "Your mother was a legend. Her breakfasts and smile were my solace on many a morning."